Mike Meyers' CompTIA A+ Guide To

Title Page
Copyright Page
Acknowledgments
About this Book
Contents At a Glance
Contents
Introduction
Instructor Materials
Chapter 1 Safety and Professionalism
	1102
		The Professional Tech
			Professional Appearance and Attire
			The Traits of a Tech
		Effective Communication
			Assertive Communication
			Respectful Communication
			Getting Answers
			Expectations and Follow-Up
		Be Prepared!
			Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
			Antistatic Tools
			Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)
			Radio Frequency Interference (RFI)
			Physical Tools
			Personal Safety
	1101
		Troubleshooting Methodology
	Chapter 1 Review
Chapter 2 The Visible Computer
	Historical/Conceptual
		The Computing Process
			The Computing Parts
			Stages
			Why the Process Matters to Techs
			Breaking It Down
	1101
		Computing Hardware
	1102
		Computing Software
			Common Operating System Functions
			User Interfaces
			File Structures and Paths
			The Tech Utility Launch Points
	Chapter 2 Review
Chapter 3 CPUs
	Historical/Conceptual
		CPU Core Components
			The Man in the Box
			Registers
			Clock
			Back to the External Data Bus
		Memory
			Memory and RAM
			Address Bus
	1101
		Modern CPUs
			Developers
			Technology
		Selecting and Installing CPUs
			Selecting a CPU
			Installation Issues
		Troubleshooting CPUs
			Symptoms of Overheating
			Catastrophic Failure
	Beyond A+
		Hybrid Cores
		Process Nodes
	Chapter 3 Review
Chapter 4 RAM
	Historical/Conceptual
		Understanding DRAM
			Organizing DRAM
			Practical DRAM
			DRAM Sticks
			Consumer RAM
		Types of RAM
			SDRAM
			DDR SDRAM
	1101
		DDR3
		DDR4
		DDR5
		RAM Variations
		Working with RAM
			Do You Need More RAM?
			Getting the Right RAM
			Installing DIMMs
			Installing SO-DIMMs in Laptops
		Troubleshooting RAM
	Chapter 4 Review
Chapter 5 Firmware
	1101
		We Need to Talk
			Talking to the Keyboard
		CMOS and the System Setup Utility
			Touring the System Setup Utility
			Noteworthy BIOS/UEFI Security Settings
			Exiting and Saving BIOS/UEFI Settings
		Power-On Self-Test (POST)
			Before and During the Video Test: The Beep Codes
			Text Errors
			POST Cards
			The Boot Process
		Care and Feeding of BIOS/UEFI
			Default/Optimized Settings
			Clearing CMOS
			Losing CMOS RTC Settings
			Flashing the ROM
	Chapter 5 Review
Chapter 6 Motherboards
	Historical/Conceptual
		How Motherboards Work
			Form Factors
	1101
		Chipset
		Standard Components
		Additional Components
		Expansion Bus
			Structure and Function of the Expansion Bus
			PCI
			PCI Express
			Installing Expansion Cards
			Troubleshooting Expansion Cards
		Upgrading and Installing Motherboards
			Choosing the Motherboard and Case
			Installing the Motherboard
		Troubleshooting Motherboards
			Symptoms
			Techniques
			Options
	Chapter 6 Review
Chapter 7 Power Supplies
	Historical/Conceptual
		Understanding Electricity
	1101
		Powering the PC
			Supplying AC
		1102
		1101
			Supplying DC
		Installing and Maintaining Power Supplies
			Installing
			Cooling
		Troubleshooting Power Supplies
			No Motherboard
			When Power Supplies Die Slowly
			Fuses and Fire
			Redundant Power Supplies
			Modular Power Supplies
	Chapter 7 Review
Chapter 8 Mass Storage Technologies
	Historical/Conceptual
		How Hard Drives Work
			Hard Drives
	1101
		Solid-State Drives
		Connecting Mass Storage
			PATA
			SATA
			eSATA and Other External Drives
			Refining Mass Storage Communication
		Protecting Data with RAID
			RAID
			Implementing RAID
			Software Versus Hardware
			Dedicated RAID Boxes
		Installing Drives
			Choosing Your Drive
			Cabling SATA Drives
			Connecting Solid-State Drives
			BIOS Support: Configuring CMOS and Installing Drivers
			Troubleshooting Hard Drive Installation
	Chapter 8 Review
Chapter 9 Implementing Mass Storage
	Historical/Conceptual
		Hard Drive Partitions
	1102
		Master Boot Record
		Dynamic Disks
		GUID Partition Table
		Other Partition Types
		When to Partition
		Partition Naming Problems
		Hard Drive Formatting
			File Systems in Windows
			FAT32
			NTFS
			exFAT
			File Systems in macOS
			File Systems in Linux
		The Partitioning, Formatting, and Pooling Process
			Bootable Media
			Partitioning and Formatting with the Installation Media
			Disk Management
			Formatting a Partition
			Storage Spaces
		Maintaining and Troubleshooting Hard Drives
			Maintenance
	1101
		Troubleshooting Hard Drive Implementation
	Chapter 9 Review
Chapter 10 Essential Peripherals
	1101
		Supporting Common Ports
			Serial Ports
			USB Ports
			Thunderbolt Ports
			General Port Issues
		Common Peripherals
			Keyboards
			Pointing Devices
			Biometric Devices
			Barcode Scanner/QR Scanner
			Touchscreens
			KVM Switches
			Game Controllers and Joysticks
			Digitizers
			Multimedia Devices and Formats
		Removable Storage Devices
			Flash Memory
			Optical Media
	Chapter 10 Review
Chapter 11 Installing and Upgrading Operating Systems
	1102
		Windows Versions and Editions
			What About Windows 11?
			Windows 10 Home
			Workgroups vs. Domains
			Windows 10 Pro
			Windows 10 Pro for Workstations/Windows 10 Enterprise
			What Version of Windows Do I Have?
		Installing and Upgrading Windows
			Media Sources
			Types of Installation
			The OS Installation Process
			Troubleshooting Installation Problems
		Post-Installation Tasks
			Windows Updates
			Upgrading Drivers
			Restoring User Data Files (If Applicable)
			Installing Essential Software
			Migrating and Retiring Systems
			No Installation Is Perfect
	Chapter 11 Review
Chapter 12 Working with Operating Systems
	1102
		Registry
			Accessing the Registry
			Registry Components
			Talkin’ Registry
			Manual Registry Edits
			Command-Line Registry Editing Tools
		Your Basic Windows Toolset
			System Configuration
			Windows Settings
			Control Panel
		Processes, Applications, and Services Tools
			Task Manager
			Resource Monitor
			Microsoft Management Console
		macOS Preferences and Features
			System Preferences
			Apple ID
			AirDrop
			Spotlight
			Keychain
			FileVault
	Chapter 12 Review
Chapter 13 Users, Groups, and Permissions
	1102
		Authentication with Users and Groups
			Standard Accounts
			Groups
			Standard Account and Elevated Privileges
			Configuring Users and Groups in Windows
			Authentication Options
		Authorization Through NTFS
			NTFS Permissions
			Inheritance
			Permission Propagation
			Techs and Permissions
			Permissions in Linux and macOS
		Sharing Resources Securely
			Sharing Folders and Files
			Locating Shared Folders
			Protecting Data with Encryption
		Beyond Sharing Resources
			Security Policies
			User Account Control
			How UAC Works
			UAC in Modern Windows
	Chapter 13 Review
Chapter 14 Maintaining and Optimizing Operating Systems
	1102
		Maintaining Operating Systems
			Patch Management
			Scheduling Maintenance
			Controlling Autostarting Software
		Optimizing Operating Systems
			Installing and Removing Software
			Performance Options
		Preparing for Problems
			Backup and Recovery Options
			Backup Testing
			Backup Rotation Schemes
			Backing Up Personal Data
			System Restore in Windows
	Beyond A+
		Third-Party Backup Tools
	Chapter 14 Review
Chapter 15 Working with the Command-Line Interface
	1102
		Deciphering the Command-Line Interface
			Shells
			Accessing the Command-Line Interface in Windows
			Accessing the Command-Line Interface in macOS and Linux
			The Prompt
			Closing the Terminal
			Drives and Folders
		Mastering Fundamental Commands
			Structure: Syntax and Switches
			Changing Directory Focus: The cd Command
			Moving Between Drives
			Making Directories: The md/mkdir Command
			Removing Directories: The rd/rmdir Command
			Running a Program in Windows
			Running a Program in macOS and Linux
		Working with Files
			Reading Plaintext Files
			Using Wildcards to Locate Files
			Deleting Files
			Copying and Moving Files
			Pruning and Grafting Folder Trees
		Assorted Windows Commands
			chkdsk (/f /r)
			format
			hostname
			winver
			gpupdate
			gpresult
			sfc
			shutdown
			Keyboard Shortcuts
		Assorted macOS and Linux Commands
			See Running Processes: top and ps
			grep
			find
			Package Managers: apt-get and yum
			nano
			dd
			df
			shutdown
		Scripting
			Script Types and Languages
			Ask Not What You Can Do for Scripting
			Here Be Dragons
	Beyond A+
		Anatomy of a Script
		Environment Variables
	Chapter 15 Review
Chapter 16 Troubleshooting Operating Systems
	1102
		Common Windows Troubleshooting Procedures
			Turning Things Off and Back On
			System File Check
			Uninstall/Reinstall/Update Applications
			Resource Requirements
			Recovering When Windows Breaks
			Rebuild Windows Profiles
		Troubleshooting Common Windows OS Symptoms
			Blue Screen of Death
			Sluggish Performance
			Boot Problems
			Frequent Shutdowns
			Services Not Starting
			Applications Crashing
			Low Memory Warnings
			USB Controller Resource Warnings
			System Instability
			No OS Found
			Slow Profile Load
			Time Drift
	1101
		Troubleshooting Problems Related to Motherboard, CPU, RAM, and Power
			Power-On Self-Test
			Proprietary Crash Screens
			Black Screen
			No Power
			Sluggish Performance
			Overheating
			Burning Smell
			Frequent Shutdowns
			Application Crashes
			Grinding Noise
			Capacitor Swelling
			Inaccurate System Date/Time
	Chapter 16 Review
Chapter 17 Display Technologies
	1101
		Video Displays
			Flat-Panel Displays
			Projectors
			Common Display Features
		Display Adapters
			Motherboard Slot
			Graphics Processor
			Video Memory
			Integrated GPUs
			Connector Types and Associated Cables
		Installing and Configuring Video
			Software
	1102
		Working with Drivers
	1101
		Troubleshooting Video
			Troubleshooting Monitors
			Troubleshooting Projectors
			Troubleshooting Video Cards and Drivers
	Beyond A+
		Evaluating Monitors
			Resolution
			PPI
			Brightness
			Viewing Angle
			Response Rate
			Refresh Rate
			Contrast Ratio
			Color Depth
			Panel Technology
			High Dynamic Range
			Adaptive Sync
		Additional Display Topics
			MicroLED
			eGPUs
	Chapter 17 Review
Chapter 18 Essentials of Networking
	1101
		Roles Hosts Play in Networks
		Networking Technologies
			Frames and NICs
			Ethernet
			Ethernet with Twisted Pair
			Ethernet with Alternative Connections
		Implementing Ethernet
			The Typical LAN
			Structured Cabling
			Going Wide
	Chapter 18 Review
Chapter 19 Local Area Networking
	1101/1102
		Interconnecting Networks
			Network Addressing with IPv4
			Network Addressing with IPv6
			Domain Name System
			Entering Client IP Information
			TCP vs. UDP
			TCP/IP Settings
			TCP/IP Tools
			Configuring TCP/IP
			Automatic Private IP Addressing
		Installing and Configuring a Wired Network
			Installing a NIC
			Configuring IP Addressing
			Connecting to a Switch
		Network Organization and Access Control
			Shared Resources
			Organizing with Workgroups
			Organizing with Domains
			File Servers and Drive Mapping
			Sharing Printers
		Troubleshooting Networks
			Repairing Physical Cabling
			Fixing Common Problems
	Chapter 19 Review
Chapter 20 Wireless Networking
	Historical/Conceptual
		Wireless Networking Components
	1101
		Wireless Networking Software
		Wireless Infrastructure
	1102
		Wireless Networking Security
	1101
		Wireless Networking Standards and Regulations
			IEEE 802.11-Based Wireless Networking
			Optimizing Wi-Fi Coverage
			Bluetooth
	1102
		Installing and Configuring Wireless Networking
			Wi-Fi Configuration
			Bluetooth Configuration and Troubleshooting
		Troubleshooting Wi-Fi
			Hardware Troubleshooting
			Software Troubleshooting
			Connectivity Troubleshooting
			Configuration Troubleshooting
	Chapter 20 Review
Chapter 21 The Internet
	Historical/Conceptual
		How the Internet Works
			TCP/IP: The Common Language of the Internet
			Internet Service Providers
			Connection Concepts
	1101
		Connecting to the Internet
			DSL
			Cable
			Fiber
			Wi-Fi
			WISP
			Cellular
			Satellite
			Connection to the Internet
		Using the Internet
			Internet Application Protocols
	1102
		Browsing the Web
		Communicating with Others
		Remote Access
		Sharing and Transferring Files
	1101
		Embedded Systems
		Internet Troubleshooting
			No Connectivity
			Limited Connectivity
			Local Connectivity
			Slow Network Speeds
			Latency and Jitter
			Poor VoIP Call Quality
	Chapter 21 Review
Chapter 22 Virtualization
	1101
		Hardware Virtualization
			Client-Side Virtualization
			Benefits of Virtualization
			Purpose of Virtual Machines
			Creating a Virtual Machine
			Server-Side Virtualization
		To the Cloud
			The Service-Layer Cake
			Ownership and Access
			Cloud Characteristics
			Desktop Virtualization
	Chapter 22 Review
Chapter 23 Portable Computing
	Historical/Conceptual
		Portable Computing Devices
			Taxonomy
	1101
		Input Devices
		Display Types
		Extending Portable Computers
			Single-Function Ports
			Networking Options
			Portable-Specific Expansion Slots
			Storage Card Slots
			General-Purpose Ports
		Managing and Maintaining Portable Computers
			Batteries
			Power Management
			Cleaning
			Heat
			Protecting the Machine
		Upgrading and Repairing Laptop Computers
			Disassembly Process
			Standard Upgrades
			Hardware/Device Replacement
		Troubleshooting Portable Computers
			Power and Performance
			Components
	Chapter 23 Review
Chapter 24 Mobile Devices
	1101
		Mobile Computing Devices
			Device Variants
			Mobile Hardware Features
	1102
		Mobile Operating Systems
			Development Models
			Apple iOS and iPadOS
			Google Android
			Mobile OS Features
	1101
		Configuring a Mobile Device
			Enhancing Hardware
			Installing and Configuring Apps
			Network Connectivity
			Data
			E-mail
			Synchronization
			Mobile Device Communication and Ports
	Chapter 24 Review
Chapter 25 Maintaining and Securing Mobile Devices
	1101/1102
		Troubleshooting Mobile Device Issues
			Troubleshooting Tools
			Touchscreen and Display Issues
			Apps Not Launching
			Overheating
			Update Failures
			Slow Response
			Battery Life
			Swollen Battery
			Random Reboots and Freezes
			Cannot Broadcast to an External Monitor
			No Sound from Speakers
			Connectivity and Data Usage Issues
			GPS and Location Services Problems
			Encryption Problems
		Securing Mobile Devices
			BYOD Versus Corporate-Owned Devices
			Profile Security Requirements
			Preventing Physical Damage
			Combating Malware
			Dealing with Loss
			Recovering from Theft
			Securing Your Data
		Mobile OS and Application Security Issues
			Troubleshooting Tools
			Risks, Symptoms, and Clues
	Chapter 25 Review
Chapter 26 Printers and Multifunction Devices
	1101
		Printer and Multifunction Device Consumables
			Printers
			Scanners
			Copy and Fax Components
			Automatic Document Feeders
			Connectivity
			Physical Installation
		The Laser Printing Process
			Processing
			Charging
			Exposing
			Developing
			Transferring
			Fusing
			Cleaning
		Installing a Multifunction Device
			Setting Up Printers in Windows
	1102
		Configuring Print Settings
		Optimizing Print Performance
		Managing Public/Shared/Networked Devices
	1101
		Maintaining and Troubleshooting Printers
			Maintaining and Troubleshooting General Issues
			Maintaining and Troubleshooting Impact Printers
			Maintaining and Troubleshooting Thermal Printers
			Maintaining and Troubleshooting Inkjet Printers
			Maintaining and Troubleshooting Laser Printers
			Troubleshooting 3-D Printers
	Chapter 26 Review
Chapter 27 Securing Computers
	1102
		Analyzing Threats and Vulnerabilities
			Threats
			Vulnerabilities
		Security Concepts and Technologies
			Physical Security
			Logical Security
		Network Security
			Malicious Software
			Malware Signs and Symptoms
			Malware Prevention and Recovery
	1101
		Firewalls
		Internet Appliances
	1102
		Authentication and Encryption
		Wireless Issues
	Chapter 27 Review
Chapter 28 Operational Procedures
	1102
		Implementing Best Practices Associated with Documentation and Support Systems Information Management
			Asset Management
			Documentation for Policies, Procedures, Industry Standards, and Compliance
			Ticketing Systems
			Knowledge Base/Articles
		Change-Management Best Practices
			Documented Business Processes
			Change-Management Process
		Environmental Impacts and Local Environmental Controls
			Temperature, Humidity, and Ventilation
			Hazardous Materials
		Prohibited Content/Activity and Privacy, Licensing, and Policies
			Data Classification
			Regulated Data
			Compliance
			Licensing, End-User License Agreement, and Digital Rights Management
			Incident Response
	Beyond A+
	Chapter 28 Review
Appendix A Mapping to the CompTIA A+ Objectives
	220-1101 Exam Objectives
	220-1102 Exam Objectives
Appendix B About the Online Content
	System Requirements
	Your Total Seminars Training Hub Account
		Privacy Notice
	Single User License Terms and Conditions
	TotalTester Online
		Pre-Assessment
	Playing the CompTIA A+ Introduction Video
	Mike’s CompTIA A+ Video Training Sample
	TotalSims Sample for CompTIA A+
	Mike’s Cool Tools
	Technical Support
Glossary
Index